Lani Chaves: Responding to Life Through Art:
Meet Lani Chaves, a talented watercolor artist whose vibrant creations reflect a profound connection to life's joy and the shared beauty of our world. Lani's artistic journey began with her decision to study sculpture, painting, ceramics and glass at Virginia Commonwealth University. There she earned a B.F.A in 1986 majoring in Fine Arts and minoring in Crafts. She also has a B.A. in Art Education from North Carolina Central University. Lani takes pride in cultivating a rich and varied collection of artworks.
Spring Fireworks, 30x20 Watercolor
The Healing Power of Watercolors:
Always a communicator, after university, Lani turned to the spoken word, enjoying a successful 10-year career as a stand-up comedienne. She also taught art at West Lee Middle. It was an unexpected grief journey, after her husband's passing, that catapulted Lani's renewed study in watercolors. In addition to writing a blog, painting became the divine nexus for healing in her life. Over the past 10 years Lani has studied with renowned watercolor artists Jj Jiang , Linda Dallas and Ryan Fox. She has also enjoyed workshops with Charleston's Mary Whyte and the Adirondacks’ Sarah Yeoman. Lani's portfolio is a testament to her openness to all styles and subject matters. This commitment to continuous learning and exploration ensures that each painting carries a unique and spirited touch of aliveness.
Freedom, 24x26 Watercolor
Bold Statements, Imagined Narratives, and an Energetic Spirit:
In addition to her bold and pattern-filled still lifes and landscapes, Lani ventures into the realm of creatively imagined compositions. These works begin by combining photographs—both her own and from various sources—to craft original and captivating collages from which she paints. These works are intended to be narratives expressing universal themes. All Lani's paintings, whether of real or imagined subjects, exude a warmth and romantic vibrancy that invite viewers to explore layers of emotion and express the joy and beauty (and humor) Lani finds in life.
Awakening, 30x20 Watercolor
A Home Studio and the Pittsboro Gallery of Arts:
Lani Chaves brings her artistic vision to life in her studio and art gallery located in her Chatham County home. Grateful to have her work showcased at the Pittsboro Gallery of Arts, Lani is one of 30 regional artists who are member/owners of this cooperative art gallery situated just off the circle in downtown Pittsboro. Through her involvement with the Chatham Artists Guild, Lani actively contributes to the local artistic community. During the annual studio tour she has opened her studio to the public the first two weekends of December every year since 2018.
Chrysalis 7, 7x3x4 Ceramic Sculpture
Life in Watercolors: A Glimpse into Lani's World Today:
Visiting Lani's home is an experience in itself. The wooded cul-de-sac reveals surprises, such as a beautiful waterfall, perfectly complementing the natural beauty that surrounds her. Her home is a deeply connected partner in her creative endeavors and reflects the warmth and inviting atmosphere that permeates her artwork. Lani has seamlessly woven her art into her living space, creating a haven where one can simply be—both in art and in life.
Today Lani continues to explore a variety of media. In 2024 her focus is on enhancing her portrait skills. She enjoys working to master capturing the spirit of her subjects and welcomes commission work. Her most recent ceramic series begin as thrown pots that are then combined and altered to form chrysalis/cocoon handheld garden forms. Chaves's journey into artistry has been fueled by a deep sense of healing and liveliness. She is an innately skilled communicator with an ability to express joy, humor, and beauty of everyday life. Lani's artworks carve out a unique and cherished presence in our artistic landscape. Share in the delight of life through Lani Chaves' artworks.
